Oh, Carolina

I left tonight's concert feeling better than I have in weeks. I feel fresh, new, rejuvenated. I almost feel- dare I say it- joyful! NeedToBreathe has been a band in my life for the last 6 years or so. In that time I have been to 5, now 6 concerts. I know nearly every song and EP that they have released. It's safe to say I'm a huge fan. I would even go as far as saying that they are my favorite band. The previous times I've seen them in concert have all been great, but this concert felt different. There was a different air about the boys tonight. Bear Rinehart- the lead singer, shared tonight about some very personal issues that he and his brother Bo had been having. The willingness to be open with a crowd of strangers was uplifting. And the true passion and love I heard in their voices when they sang Washed By the Water or Brother or Wasteland were all inspiring. These boys were serious tonight. We had fun for sure, but they were playing for keeps.

At previous shows I have been closer than I was tonight and I have even made eye contact with various members on occasion. Tonight though, when I caught Bear's eye during Oh Carolina, it was different. Maybe it's been my year or maybe it's been theirs, but I felt as though someone was looking at me and they just knew what I had been going through. I know it sounds silly. I know it sounds like I've just got a crush on the guy. And sure, Bear's attractive- I'll admit that, but I'm getting at something else. This concert moved me. I fought back tears several times. I came away feeling full and refreshed for the first time in ages. 

These guys have saved me time and time again with their music and I'm glad I got to see them tonight. I'm so blessed to have their music in my life and I know without a doubt that their words will remain with me for a long time.